HEENA MAHAJAN – Delhi
Tourism New Zealand is now focusing on the business events and incentives segment in the India market. Mischa Mannix-Opie, the new regional manager in South and South East Asia, Tourism New Zealand recently spoke about the efforts to promote New Zealand for business events while reinforcing the continued commitment to marketing the country as a holiday destination out of India. “India is an important market for New Zealand, particularly as travellers visit after the typical summer high-season has concluded. Their welcomed arrival supports tourism operators through the shoulder season,” said Mannix-Opie.
Tourism New Zealand has developed a Business Events Strategy in the last 12 months and this is now being implemented in key markets around the globe. India has been highlighted as a key market in this strategy that provides strong opportunities for New Zealand. According to Mannix-Opie, New Zealand is already an inspirational destination for Indian businesses that run incentive programmes. “We believe there is plenty more growth in this segment given the exceptional product that we offer. Our relationships with key trade and airline partners will be important in growing this segment we look forward to working with them in the year ahead,” added Mannix-Opie. Tourism New Zealand confirmed that it will continue its marketing efforts in India into the next financial year.
Recent statistics show that more than 28,500 tourists from India visited New Zealand in the year ending February 2012. There was 4.7 per cent growth in total arrivals between December 2011 and February 2012, compared to the same period last year. Holiday travellers grew 2.5 per cent during the same period. The plan is to focus on the leisure market and also the MICE sector.
